Suspected killer of Special Agent Walter makes first court appearance

RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) - The man suspected of shooting and killing Virginia State Police Special Agent Michael Walter made his first appearance in court via video on Tuesday.

Judge David Hicks read Travis A. Ball, 27, the charges against him as he sat in a room at Richmond City Jail.

"The first charge alleges that on the 26th of May this year, you maliciously shot, stabbed and wounded trooper Michael Walter," Hicks said. "The second charge alleges that you used a firearm during that malicious wounding and the third charge alleges you possessed a firearm after being convicted of a felony."

Ball, who is being held without bond at Richmond City Jail, requested a public defender to represent him in this case.

Also Tuesday, the Medical Examiner's Office said Walter died due to a gunshot wound to the head.

Police said Saturday that more charges are pending.

Walter died after police say he was shot Friday night during a city-state partnership program in Mosby Court.

A Richmond Police officer and Walter observed a silver Chevrolet Cobalt pull up to the curb in the 1900 block of Redd Street. The officer and Walter pulled in behind the Cobalt and walked up to the car to start a conversation as part of a consensual encounter.

As the Richmond Police Officer was talking with the driver, Walter approached the passenger side where Ball was seated. Police say that within moments, a single shot rang out and Ball -- who is from Richmond -- was running from the car on foot.

The driver of the car remained at the scene and was detained by Richmond Police.

Ball remained on the run throughout the night and early Saturday, and was arrested at a residence at Northumberland shortly after 6 a.m.

Ball has a criminal history, including being found guilty of obstructing justice and assault and battery in 2014.